Chen Long Takes on Coaching Role to Elevate China’s Junior Badminton Team

Chen Long, the renowned badminton player and three-time Olympic medallist, has transitioned from player to coach, taking the helm of China’s junior badminton team at the BWF World Junior Championship in Guwahati. He aims to leverage his extensive experience to guide young athletes as they strive for success on the international stage. Under his leadership, the team has already secured three medals at the championship.

From Player to Coach: A New Chapter

The 36-year-old’s presence at the championship has been notably vibrant. Unlike the typical reserved demeanor associated with coaching, Chen has displayed an animated style, engaging energetically with his players. His enthusiastic clapping, supportive gestures, and celebratory reactions have captured the attention of spectators and media alike. Watching him interact with his team offers a unique insight into his dedication and passion for the sport.

The challenge for Chen lies in translating his personal experiences as an elite player into effective coaching strategies. “My challenge now is to use all the experience I have gathered over the years to teach the players and help them perform better on the court,” he stated during a media interaction. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on individual points rather than the overall result, encouraging players to maintain their composure during competition.

Chen’s last appearance on a major badminton court was during the final of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where he won his third Olympic medal. Following his retirement in 2023, he initially stepped away from the competitive scene to focus on family life with his wife, former world No. 1 Wang Shixian. However, his enduring enthusiasm for badminton prompted him to return in a coaching capacity.

Coaching with Heart

The emotional rollercoaster experienced during matches has proven to be a new source of stress for Chen. He candidly admitted that he feels more pressure as a coach than he ever did as a player. “It’s more stressful as coach for sure… I do not need to play on court to feel the same stress as the player, sometimes even more than the player,” he remarked. This emotional investment is evident as he passionately supports his athletes during their matches.

During the semifinals, both matches featured intense competition against Indonesia, a formidable rival. Chen was deeply involved, offering encouragement and guidance throughout. When one of his players, Mohd. Zaki Ubaidillah, narrowly lost, Chen’s supportive gesture—a comforting pat on the back—demonstrated his commitment to his players’ morale. Conversely, when Liu Yang Ming Yu clinched a victory, Chen’s exuberant celebration reflected his joy and pride in their achievement.

Chen’s coaching philosophy is rooted in the desire to create a supportive environment for his players. Unlike his previous need for a stoic demeanor as a competitor, he now prioritizes uplifting his team. “As a player, I needed to be poker-faced to perform better… But as a coach, I am trying to make the players feel better,” he explained, highlighting the shift in his role.

Having previously won the World Junior title in both team and individual categories as a player in 2007, Chen possesses a keen understanding of what it takes to excel in the highly competitive Chinese badminton landscape. He is optimistic about the future and is committed to nurturing his junior team, focusing on their development one step at a time.

Chen Long’s return to badminton, this time as a coach, brings with it a wave of hope and motivation for young players. His journey from a decorated athlete to an inspiring mentor has the potential to shape the future of badminton in China, sustaining the nation’s dominance in the sport.